Central Texas Warms Up After Cool Monday, Elevated Fire Danger Midweek

Central Texas is transitioning from a cool Monday morning, where temperatures dipped into the lower 40s, to a warm week ahead, with afternoon highs expected to reach the mid- to upper 70s. The significant warming trend will culminate in near-record highs around 90°F by Thursday, coinciding with the South By Southwest festival, a key event in the region. While the pleasant weather encourages outdoor activities, it also raises concerns about fire hazards, particularly as winds are forecasted to increase, reaching gusts of 25-30 mph. The Texas A&M Forest Service has rated Hill Country counties as facing a "very high" fire hazard, with Mason County under an "extreme" fire danger threat. Residents in the Austin metropolitan area are also advised to remain vigilant, as the fire risk is classified as "high.

" Rainfall is not expected to be significant, with projections indicating only a few hundredths of an inch could fall later in the week. As dry conditions persist, local authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions against potential fire threats. This shift in weather underscores the importance of being prepared for both enjoyable outdoor activities and the risks associated with heightened fire danger.